Independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont made a strong statement on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” asserting that Israel should not receive any more U.S. military aid due to its actions in the conflict with Hamas. His comments came in response to a recent State Department report criticizing Israel’s use of U.S.-supplied arms in a way that may have breached international law protecting civilians. The report acknowledged the difficulty of determining facts on the ground in an active war zone like Gaza, where Hamas has embedded itself among civilians.
Sanders cited figures from the Hamas-controlled Palestinian government, claiming that approximately 35,000 Palestinians have been killed and 77,000 wounded in the conflict, with two-thirds being women and children. He highlighted the extent of destruction in Gaza, including the loss of housing, damage to civilian infrastructure, and the systematic destruction of the healthcare system. Sanders argued that any country blocking U.S. humanitarian aid is in violation of the law and should not receive military aid from the United States. He emphasized the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis and preventing the starvation of hundreds of thousands of children.
Regarding concerns about withholding weapons shipments to Israel, Sanders pointed out that there are Republicans and Democrats who want to provide significant support to Israel, potentially regardless of the humanitarian consequences. However, he stressed that polls show the American people want an immediate ceasefire and a focus on delivering humanitarian aid. Sanders criticized the isolation of the U.S. in its unwavering support for Israel, stating that Israel is becoming viewed as a pariah nation in the international community. He acknowledged the difficulty of addressing the threat posed by Hamas without causing further destruction in Gaza.
Responding to questions about finding a non-military solution to the Hamas threat, Sanders recognized the challenge of dealing with an organization that seeks to destroy Israel. He emphasized the importance of defeating Hamas while minimizing destruction and focusing on a future where the Palestinian people can have a state of their own. Sanders expressed hope for a new generation of Palestinian leaders who prioritize the well-being and self-determination of their people. The discussion highlighted the complex dynamics of the conflict and the need for a more humane and sustainable approach to addressing the underlying issues.
Overall, Sanders’ comments reflect a call for reevaluating the U.S. approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and ensuring that American aid aligns with principles of international law and humanitarianism. The conversation also raises questions about the effectiveness of military solutions in the region and the importance of prioritizing the well-being of civilians, particularly children, who are bearing the brunt of the violence. As the conflict continues to unfold, the need for a more nuanced and inclusive diplomatic strategy becomes increasingly apparent.
